Iraq Condemns Israel’s Use of Its Airspace for Iran Strike
Caught in the Crossfire: Iraq Protests Israeli Airstrikes via Iraqi Airspace
In a move highlighting the delicate balance Iraq maintains in a volatile region, Baghdad has filed a formal complaint with the UN Security Council over Israel’s use of Iraqi airspace to conduct airstrikes against Iran. The complaint, lodged on October 26th, condemns the violation of Iraqi sovereignty and denounces the attacks on neighboring Iran.
The incident, which transpired on October 28th, saw Israeli jets allegedly utilizing Iraqi airspace to target sites within Iran. The Iranian Armed Forces General Staff reported that “long-range, air-launched missiles equipped with very light warheads” were used in the attack, which Israel claimed targeted missile batteries and production facilities. This event follows a series of tit-for-tat exchanges between the two nations, with Iran launching ballistic missiles towards Israel on October 1st. The Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of four Iranian soldiers.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has instructed the Foreign Ministry to address the issue with the United States, whose military presence in Iraq complicates the situation. While the US has not publicly commented on the incident, the incident underscores the complex geopolitical realities of the region.
This event throws into sharp relief the precarious position Iraq occupies, maintaining ties with both the United States and Iran. While the US remains a key ally, providing military and economic support, Iran exerts significant influence within Iraq, supporting various groups within the country. This includes elements of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an umbrella organization of mostly Shia militias, some of which are deeply integrated into the Iraqi security apparatus.
The Iraqi government, emphasizing its commitment to regional stability, reiterated its stance against allowing its territory to be used for attacks against any nation, particularly its neighbors. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the challenges faced by nations caught in the crossfire.